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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Inside Ethiopian Churches: Travel Photo Thursday

Welcome to Travel Photo Thursday once again, and this week I thought we'd take a peek inside churches in Ethiopia.

Christianity in Ethiopia dates way back to the 1st Century AD, shortly after the early apostles spread out through the then known world preaching the new faith. Christianity became the state religion around 330AD, withstanding many later Islamic attempts to invade and convert the country, however being surrounded by Islamic cultures, its isolation saw it develop quite differently from mainstream Christianity in Europe. "Develop" is perhaps the wrong word to use there - it would be better to say that that the Coptic Christian Church that survived in Ethiopia may be closer to the roots, ceremonies and practices of early Christian beliefs whereas it is European based Christianity that changed.

Generally churches will be covered inside with pictures depicting bible scenes, and associated legends. The dark, almost airless interiors have protected the still brilliant colours. Here we see Adam and Eve depicted nude in the first, then covering in shame before expulsion from Eden.

An attendant guards a depiction of Saint George killing the dragon. This legend which we will be familiar with is strongly represented in every church. You are looking at paintings and carpets that may be hundreds of years old, perhaps over 1,000. Most early churches are rock cut - constructed by cutting the whole church into the cliffs.

Mary and baby Jesus.

That may be climbing Jacob's ladder.

Still brilliant colours after so many centuries. Many of these churches built around 1200Ad.

Hard time focusing in the gloomy interiors so many shots didn't turn out very well, but this is included to give a general idea of the interiors.

Not knowing the bible all too well, you'll have to leave comments about the scenes depicted here. I guess someone is a wee bit thirsty.

Travel Photo Thursday is on again where travel bloggers post up their great pics from around the world. Join us! Head over to Nancie'sBudget Traveler's Sandboxand post up your travel photo and link into the fun!

Hi Pinay, yep, you will love to explore Ethiopia and the churchs, given the Christian faith there is now thought to be as close to original Christian practises than our modern is. I find that very interesting.

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About Me

A custom shoemaker, slowly wearing out his tools. No sign of slowing down for this not so young traveller, but sometimes I just have to take time out to repair my worn out soles. They've been around, and it's time to talk of where they've been. Join us in our journeys, we'll learn more about wildlife conservation and social issues around this world, and maybe delve beyond the conscious